Yoshida returned to Japan to further develop his managerial role with the youths of Kashiwa Reysol, and was eventually promoted to head coach of the club in 2015, leading the club to a quarter-final finish in the 2015 AFC Champions League.

His latest roles at the helm includes Albirex Niigata and Ventforet Kofu in 2016 and 2017 respectively.

Yoshida’s first task will be to prepare his team for two friendly matches with Solomon Islands and Myanmar on June 8 and 11 respectively, ahead of their FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and AFC Asian Cup 2023 Joint Preliminary Qualifiers.

In a press conference at the Jalan Besar Stadium, FAS President Lim Kia Tong delivered the opening speech, saying: “Yoshida’s experience with youth development was a key factor that the selection committee and I took into consideration.

“We needed someone who has the technical ability to develop the skill-set of our youth footballers, the future national team, and the ability to influence the mentality of our senior players to ignite their desire to fight and win, and to be exemplary models for the younger players.

“In addition to his experience, Yoshida brings with him the exemplary attitude, strict discipline and hardwork that the Japanese are known for.

"We are convinced he is the right person for the job, and we are confident that he will be able to bring about the fast intensity and fast-moving football style that both we and the fans are looking for.”